LEARNING SOCIETYLIFELONGLEARNING
2025 SUMMER PROGRAM
The LifeLong Learning Society (LLS) of Christopher Newport University is a membership organization dedicated to people of retirement age who seek opportunities for learning in an environment of sharing and fellowship. There are no requirements as to previous educational experience. Intellectual curiosity is the only admission requirement. Managed by and for its members, LLS is a program of Christopher Newport University and is a member of the Road Scholar LLI Resource Network. Through a variety of activities — including lectures, courses, study and discussion groups, lunches, dinners and field trips — people of diverse backgrounds come together to share a common interest in learning. There are no exams or grades in the courses, although some courses include assigned readings and the possible purchase of a textbook. All people of retirement age are encouraged to join if they are interested in being challenged by new ideas in the company of other eager learners. LLS shares its program with the community by participating in joint learning efforts with other educational and research institutions, retirement groups, industries and museums and by co-sponsoring an annual conference.
Program Overview
The three-week program includes the dates and times for the 29 courses, which are listed on pages 2-3.
Membership Fee and Benefits
Full membership for the 2025 summer session is $115. This includes summer courses, interest groups, and the opportunity to participate in optional activities, such as field trips and luncheons, by paying the activity fees.
LLS members who paid $285 last September or $235 in January have already paid their membership fee. For a current associate member to take summer courses, the fee is $55.
A member may bring a guest one time to any of the class meetings or to optional activities if space is available. Registration opens on Monday, April 21! Courses will be confirmed by email on May
16. Registration after May 16 will be based upon availability and confirmed upon receipt.
Refund Policy
Full refund of summer membership and/or course fees will be granted if requested before June 4, 2025. After that date, no refund will be given. A 20% handling fee will be deducted from all refunds.
Economic Hardship
A fee waiver is possible, and inquiries are invited. Please call the LLS office at (757) 269-4368 for details.
Distinguished Membership
LLS members who are 90 and above are eligible for honorary membership if they have been a member for three of the past five years. Please call for details.
Alumni Membership Discount
Members of the Christopher Newport Alumni Society are eligible for a 10% discount on membership fees.
2024-25 Parking Decal Sticker Required
A current parking decal is required to park in CNU parking lots. One decal is included with your membership; additional decals can be requested on the registration page.
Office Location
660 Hamilton Drive (Yoder Barn House) Newport News, VA 23602 Phone: (757) 269-4368
Our office location is in the first house on the left at the corner of Oyster Point Road and Criston Drive. We are in the brick house across the parking lot from the Yoder Barn.
Mailing Address
LifeLong Learning Society
Christopher Newport University
Yoder Barn Theatre
660 Hamilton Drive Newport News, VA 23602-6925
Select courses will be held in person and online via Zoom simultaneously. These courses are indicated with asterisks below.
SUMMER SEMESTER
JUNE 4-27, 2025
1. Cooking with Chef Erika
Limited Enrollment
June 4 Wed., 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Held in DSU Ballroom
Join CNU Executive Chef Erika Nestler for yet another food and wine tasting and demonstration! The class will feature special guest and Winebow professional Amber Morris. $40 course fee.
Instructor: Erika Nestler, CNU Executive Chef
2. To Meat or Not to Meat***
June 9, 16, 23 Mon., 9-10:15 a.m.
This course will answer questions and information requests from the recent To Meat or Not To Meat class. Included in these are: Imparting more flavor by adding more than herbs and spices, label reading to understand serving size and nutritional content.
Instructor: Kathy Wojciechowski, LLS
3. Intermediate Yoga
Limited Enrollment
June 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25 Mon., Wed., 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Take your yoga practice to the next level on the mat. Students will be challenged with more advanced postures. Fundamentals of yoga principles, poses, breathwork, and meditation are all explored in greater depth, as you grow on your own personal journey. If you wish to enroll and have not taken yoga with Rose before, please contact the instructor. Yoga mat, large towel, and two blocks required. $15 course fee.
Instructor: Rose Winter, MPT, LMT, C-IAYT
4. Your Time Under the Sun
Limited Enrollment
June 9-13 Mon. through Fri., 9:30-10:45 a.m.
Prior to the first class, please research the year YOU were FIVE years old. Become familiar with culinary trends, current events/issues of that year, methods of communication, forms entertainment, types of transportation, etc. We will explore and write about some of these topics during the week. Writers of all levels are welcome to join this lighthearted creative nonfiction summer writing workshop.
Instructor: Heidi Hartwiger
5. Drawing & Sketching While Traveling Limited Enrollment
June 9-13 Mon. through Fri., 9:30-11:30 a.m.
This five-day course is designed for artists who travel and anyone who wants to capture the moment with their art. In this course, you will learn about elements of art and design, basic shapes and forms, and how to use an artistic perspective to create expression. Guided instruction and demonstration will be provided. List of required supplies given upon registration.
Instructor: Oksana Davis
6. Introduction to Stock Analysis***
June 9-10 Mon., Tues., 11-11:45 a.m.
Always wanted to know how the Wall Street types analyze and value stocks? These sessions will walk you through the
fundamentals of macro, micro, and technical analysis.
Instructor: Dr. Willy Donaldson, CNU
7. Gentle Yoga Limited Enrollment
June 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25 Mon., Wed., 11 a.m.-Noon
For those with some experience or beginners looking for a gentle practice on the mat. Based on the Integral Yoga style, each class will begin with a warmup, move through a series of poses for strength/flexibility/balance, and close with breathwork, deep relaxation, and meditation. Students should be able to get on and off the floor safely. Yoga mat, large towel, and two blocks required. $15 course fee.
Instructor: Rose Winter, MPT, LMT, C-IAYT
8. Watercolor Painting for Beginners Limited Enrollment
June 9-13 Mon. through Fri., 12:30-2:30 p.m.
Discover the joy of watercolor painting in this inspiring five-day class designed for a summer short session. Explore paint properties and essential techniques, become familiar with color theory and color wheel, get to know worldwide manufactures ready to help you with good quality paper and paint for your artistic journey! Guided instruction and demonstration will be provided. List of required supplies given upon registration.
Instructor: Oksana Davis
9. Intermediate Ukulele
Limited Enrollment
June 9, 16, 23 Mon., 2:30-3:45 p.m.
Learners will explore intermediate-level cords, melodies, scales, and picking and strumming techniques for the ukulele by learning traditional and popular songs. Students will explore various musical styles as we learn songs from the Beatles, beach music, Hawaiian music, and traditional jazz. For learners who have completed the beginning ukulele class.
Instructor: Mark Morgan
10. Body Fusion ONLINE ONLY
June 10, 12, 17, 19, 24, 26 Tues., Thurs., 9-10:15 a.m.
This exercise class will focus on muscle strength, muscle endurance, flexibility, balance and coordination combined with using a variety of equipment.
Instructors: Dr. Lisa Powell
11. Digital Photography 102: Focus on Composition
June 10, 12, 17, 19, 24, 26 Tues., Thurs., 9-10:15 a.m.
Limited Enrollment
This intermediate course is for those who have a comfortable working knowledge of their cameras. From practical advice to hands-on photography, this class will empower you to take control of your camera and unleash creativity. Class will consist of lecture and demonstration at Yoder Barn and on-location photography at CNU. After a quick review of camera basics, you will learn compositional techniques – utilizing directional light, point of focus, rule of thirds, identifying power points, and depth of field (blurred, soft background vs. detailed, sharp background). You will also learn when and how to use fill-flash and reflectors. The course includes homework assignments as well as critiques. Class wrap-up will encompass analyzing histograms, image review/critique, organizing and archiving images, photo resources, and follow-up questions. Please bring your fullycharged camera, manual, memory card, and lenses/accessories. Tripod is recommended but not required.
Instructor: Shirley Whitenack
12. Strength & Stretch
Limited Enrollment
June 10, 12, 17, 19, 24, 26 Tues., Thurs., 11 a.m.-Noon
This class addresses high-risk clients: those with multiple medical problems, either past or current; those who have not exercised for a very long time and would have difficulty with a standard program; those who are currently dealing with physical problems that limit movement, mobility, stamina; or those who are experiencing pain.
Instructor: Betty Peach, LLS
13. Photo 101: Beginning Digital Photography
June 10, 12, 17, 19, 24, 26 Tues., Thurs., 11 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
Limited Enrollment
Are there way too many buttons on your digital camera? Are you stuck in auto mode? Get out of auto and learn how to take control of your images. This class will give you the confidence to shoot in all modes and fully utilize your camera’s features. This class covers basic camera mechanics, correct focusing, selection of file type, shooting modes, and basics of flash. Students will learn the fundamentals of exposure with the relationship of shutter speed, aperture, and ISO explained. Elements of composition will also be discussed and practiced. You can expect to leave this class with a deeper understanding of the capabilities of your digital camera and confidence to fully utilize those capabilities to create outstanding images. Make sure to bring your fully-charged camera, instruction manual, memory card, and lenses/accessories. Some camera experience is recommended.
Instructor: Shirley Whitenack
14. Continuing Latin
Limited Enrollment
June 10, 12, 17, 19, 24, 26 Tues., Thurs., 11 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
Continuing Latin has two goals. First, we will continue to read some easy Latin stories and review basic Latin grammar. Second, we will study and discuss, together, an English translation of Homer’s “Iliad.” $15 course fee.
Instructor: Dr. Alice Rubinstein, LLS
15. Seated & Standing Yoga
Limited Enrollment
June 10, 12, 17, 19, 24, 26 Tues., Thurs., 1-2 p.m.
This gentle yoga class improves flexibility, strength, and balance and is adaptable for all levels. This class begins seated in the chair with breathwork to center and focus. Still seated, we warm up the head, neck, spine, and hips. We then move to standing postures with support of the chair, as needed. (Adaptations can be made to do postures without standing.) To end the class, we return to the chair for a period of breathwork, mindfulness and relaxation. $15 course fee.
Instructor: Melissa McGill, Ed.D., E-RYT 200
16. An Insider Look at The Mariners’ Galleries and Resources*** Held at Mariners’ Museum
June 10-12 Tues. through Thurs., 2:30-3:45 p.m.
Join staff as we provide an in-depth look at two of our popular galleries and how our archives can assist with genealogy!
The schedule is as follows: 6/10 “Finding Your Ancestor’s Ship,” 6/11 “The Miniature Ships of August Crabtree,” 6/12 “The International Small Craft Center: A Modern Cabinet of Curiosities.”
Instructor: Wisteria Perry, Associate Curator, Community Engagement, Mariners’ Museum and Park
17. Seated Chair Yoga Limited Enrollment
June 11, 18, 25 Wed., 1-2 p.m.
This gentle yoga class improves flexibility and strength and is adaptable for all levels. This class is conducted entirely seated in the chair. We begin with breathwork to center and focus, and then we warm up the muscles of the neck, shoulders, spine, hips, legs, arms, feet and hands. Class ends with a period of breathwork, mindfulness, and relaxation.
Instructor: Melissa McGill, Ed.D., E-RYT 200
18. Meditation Limited Enrollment
June 11, 18, 25 Wed., 2:15-3:15 p.m.
Join us for practice in Mindfulness and Vipassana Meditation (also called Insight Meditation). We will spend a few minutes in a guided mindfulness practice, followed by a brief discussion of different meditation principles and finish with a meditation. The meditation begins guided and moves into a period of silence. Bring any questions and observations about mindfulness and meditation. No prior experience necessary. Chairs are provided, you may bring a mat or cushion if you prefer. Regular practice between classes is encouraged.
Instructor: Melissa McGill, Ed.D., E-RYT 200
19. What’s in My Backyard: Invertebrates - The Good, the Bad, & the Beautiful***
June 13, 20 Fri., 11 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
Amaze your neighbors by naming the creepy-crawly critters in their yards! Which ones are helping their gardens and yards, and which are doing the opposite? The three-day course will cover Insects (good and bad), Arachnids with an emphasis on spiders, and other invertebrates (worms, mollusks, and other arthropods).
Instructor: Dr. Barbara Abraham, CNU, LLS
20. Because Grandparents Can Connect & Support Their Grandchildren’s Literacy Needs, Too June 13 Fri., 1-2:15 p.m. This presentation will provide practical tips to help you support your grandchildren’s literacy. We will zoom out and briefly overview the Virginia Literacy Act (VLA). Then, we will discuss how you fit in and how you can support and connect with your grandchildren, ages preschool to high school, through literacy. Dr. Kryscio is an elementary school reading specialist and adjunct professor at CNU.
Instructor: Dr. Kathryn Kryscio, CNU
21. Intermediate-Advanced Figurative Painting
June 16-20 Mon. through Fri., 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Limited Enrollment
Join us for a five-day summer course to practice and refine your artistic eye in a fun and supportive environment. This class will focus on figurative painting from life. Basic and advanced painting techniques will be required. Any wet media (watercolor, gouache, acrylic or oils) are welcome. List of recommended supplies given upon registration. Please register for only one figurative painting course.
Instructor: Oksana Davis
22. Intermediate-Advanced Figurative Painting
June 16-20 Mon. through Fri., 12:30-2:30 p.m.
Limited Enrollment
Same as course #21. Please register for only one figurative painting course. Instructor: Oksana Davis
23. From H.G. Wells to Steven Spielberg: the History of Science Fiction in One Story
June 16-20 Mon. throuigh Fri., 1-2:15 p.m.
Written for a new genre of literature now known as science fiction, Herbert George Wells’ “The War of the Worlds” has never been out of print since he first serialized it in 1895 as H.G. Wells. With the possible exception of Jules Verne’s “Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, The War of the Worlds” is arguably the most famous work of science fiction in history, and it has ably served as source material for a host of incarnations. Orson Welles famously adapted the story for radio and so infamously broadcast it on Halloween Eve in 1938 that he was called before congress to justify the nationwide panic he created. George Pal won the Special Effects Oscar for his brilliant 1953 film version, and Steven Spielberg reworked the story at Tom Cruise’s suggestion for his haunting 2005 film, which completely reimagines the entire saga as a family drama starring Cruise as a working-class father. Each of these versions will be featured in this course and will collectively provide a history of the entire genre. Prior to class, students are strongly requested to read Wells’ novel and to listen to the hour-long 1938 radio broadcast, which can be found easily on YouTube. The class period will be extended to 3:30 p.m. on the last day of class.
Instructor: George Hillow, Emeritus CNU
24. A Tai Chi Review Limited Enrollment
June 16, 17, 19, 20 Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri., 2:30-3:45 p.m.
Each of the four days will be devoted to understanding and polishing a specific Tai Chi form: the Yang 24-step Beginners form, the Yang 37-step short form (Cheng Man Ching version), the Yang Family 13-step form, and Bafa Wubu (the eight methods and five step that are the cornerstone of all Tai Chi). Students will have the opportunity to revisit and practice each form, review technique, ask questions and offer their own insights. It is not necessary to know all four sets, however, Tai Chi experience is recommended. $15 course fee.
Instructor: Richard Tate
25. The Home-town Tourist***
June 19 Thurs., 2:30-3:45 p.m.
Why go far when we have so many treasures in our own backyard! Learn about the many opportunities our city has to experience, from world class attractions to the great outdoors.
Instructor: Dia Foden, Marketing Technician, Newport News Tourism Division
26. What is Beauty?***
June 23-27 Mon. through Fri., 11 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
Is beauty in the eye of the beholder? Are there absolute standards of beauty? What makes someartifacts art and others not? Is a copy of a great painting/statue itself a work of art? Why do people produce art, music, poetry and novels? “A (wo)man who has had no opportunity of comparing the different kinds of beauty is totally unqualified to pronounce an opinion with regard to any object presented to (her)/him,” pronounced David Hume in 1757. If he is wrong, why is he wrong? While these questions are as old as philosophy itself, the word aesthetics was only coined in the 18th century. In this course we will consider several issues within aesthetics, from Plato to Heidegger, that have been historically prominent and remain important.
Dr. Brenda Lindemann, LLS
27. Nature’s Potluck***
June 23-27 Mon. through Fri., 1-2:15 p.m.
Come and enjoy learning about nature and native plants in Virginia! There will be five independent lectures on various topics relating to nature: 1. Benefits of Gardening, 2. Forest Immersion, 3. Growing Herbs and Spices, 4. 25 Ways to Kill a Tree, and 5. Container Gardens. No experience necessary, just a willingness to play in the dirt.
Instructor: Dr. Daina Henry, LLS
28. Freeform Peyote Bracelet Limited Enrollment June 23-27 Mon. through Fri., 1-2:15 p.m.
Freeform peyote beading returns again this summer! This class will utilize peyote bead weaving in a freeform style. You will learn to use a variety of shaped beads and colors to create a one-of-a-kind bracelet in class. The instructor will both demonstrate the techniques and coach participants to achieve the desired design. You will each work with five or six styles of beads in your bracelet. Please either bring a bracelet you wear, or, measure your wrist so your bracelet can be made to fit. So, are you ready to thread your needle? Instructor will provide all materials, diagrams, and samples of freeform Peyote jewelry. $20 course fee due to instructor on the first day of class.
Instructor: Patti Kernodle, LLS
29. Ekphrastic Poetry Limited Enrollment June 25 Wed., 9-10:30 a.m. What is poetry’s role in our society today? What topics, themes or ideas does contemporary poetry address? How can we find a way into poetry writing? Ekphrasis, from the Greek “description,” is one way to explore the genre for those new to poetry. Ekphrastic poetry is poetry written in response to another art form. This workshop will introduce participants to the concept of ekphrasis along with short poetic forms including haiku, tanka and cinquain. Participants will then get to practice writing their own ekphrastic poems in response to art provided by the instructor. Sharing of participant work is encouraged.
Instructor: Dr. Nicole Emmelhainz-Carney, CNU
Interest Groups:
nner 12 Seated Chair Yoga 2:153:1 5 Meditation 2:303:4 5 Mariners ’ Mus eum *** 910:1 5 Digital Photo 10 2 910:15 Body Fusion 9:3010:4 5 Time Under the Sun 9:3011:3 0 Drawing & Sketching 11Noo n Strength & Stretch 1112:1 5 Digital Photo 101 1112:15 Continuing Latin 12:302:30 Watercolor Begi nner 12 Seated & Standing Yoga 2:303:4 5 Mariners ’ Mus eum *** 9:3 010:45 Time Under the Sun 9:3011:3 0 Drawing & Sketching 1112:1 5 Invertebrate s *** 12:302:30 Watercolor Begi nner 12:15 Grandchildren Literacy
910:1 5 To Mea t o r Not *** 9:3010:30 Intermediate Yoga 9:3011:30 Morning Painting 11Noo n Gentle Yoga 12:302:30 Afternoon Painti ng 12:15 SciFi in One Story 2:303:45 Intermediate Ukulele 2:303:45 T ai Chi 910:1 5 Digital Photo 10 2 910:15 Body Fusion 9:3011:30 Morning Painting 11Noo n Strength & Stretch 1112:1 5 Digital Photo 101 1112:15 Continuing Latin 12:302:30 Afternoon Painting 12 Seated & Standing Yoga 12:15 SciFi in One Story 2:303:4 5 T ai Chi 9:3 010:30 Intermediate Yoga 9:3011:30 Morning Painting 11Noon Gentle Yoga 12:302:30 Afternoon Painting 12 Seated Chair Yoga 12:15 SciFi in One Stor y 2:153:1 5 Meditation 910:1 5 Digital Photo 102 910:15 Body Fusion 9:3011:30 Morning Painting 11Noo n Strength & Stretch 1112:1 5 Digital Photo 101 1112:15 Continuing Latin 12:302:30 Afternoon Painting 12 Seated & Standing Yoga 12:15 SciFi in One Story 2:303:4 5 Home t ow n Tourist *** 2:303:4 5 T ai Chi 9:3 011:30 Morning Painting 1112:15 Invertebrates *** 12:302:30 Afternoon Painting 13:30 SciFi in One Story 2:303:4 5 T ai Chi
Beading 1112:1 5 What is Beauty *** 12:15 Nature's Potluck *** 12:15 Beading
910:15 To Mea t o r Not… ** * 9:3010:30 Intermediate Yoga 11Noon Gentle Yoga 1112:1
CNU
Name(s): _____________________________________________________ Phone: ____________________________
Address: _____________________________________________ Street City Zip Code
Are you enrolling as a new member of LLS? Yes ____ No ____
Email: _______________________________________________________
Emergency Contact: __________________________________
Summer Courses
Birth date: __________________________
Please number courses in order of preference (one being your highest priority) in each session. Courses will be filled based on priority selections and the time at which selections are received. _____ 1. Cooking with Erika _____ 11. Digital Photo 102 _____ 21. Morning Painting _____ 2. To Meat or Not to Meat*** _____ 12. Strength & Stretch _____ 22. Afternoon Painting _____ 3. Intermediate Yoga _____ 13. Digital Photo 101 _____ 23. Sci-Fi in One Story _____ 4. Time Under the Sun _____ 14. Continuing Latin _____ 24. Tai Chi _____ 5. Drawing & Sketching _____ 15. Seated & Standing Yoga _____ 25. Hometown Tourist*** . _____ 6. Stock Analysis*** _____ 16. Mariners’ Museum*** _____ 26. What is Beauty*** _____ 7. Gentle Yoga _____ 17. Seated Chair Yoga _____ 27. Nature’s Potluck*** _____ 8. Watercolor Beginner _____ 18. Meditation _____ 28. Beading _____ 9. Intermediate Ukulele _____ 19. Invertebrates*** _____ 29. Ekphrastic Poetry _____ 10. Body Fusion _____ 20. Grandchildren Literacy
WEEKLY ACTIVITIES - OPEN TO ALL MEMBERS: ___ Book Club ___ Mah-jongg ___ Ukulele
Our Society is managed by and for its members. If you are willing to help, please check one or more of the following: ____ Hospitality ____ Program planning ____ Course assistant ____ Teaching a course
Registration opens on Monday, April 21! Registration will be accepted at the LLS Office in person, by mail, or over the phone. ONLINE REGISTRATION COMING SOON! Courses will be confirmed by email on May 16. Registration after May 16 will be based upon availability and confirmed upon receipt.
If you paid $285 for a fall membership or $235 for a spring membership, you do NOT owe any additional membership fee.
• FULL membership for summer 2025 courses, interest groups and optional activities...................................($115) $__________
• ASSOCIATE membership for summer 2025 interest groups and optional activities. No courses...................($70) $__________
• If you are currently an associate member and want summer courses...............................................................($55) $__________
• Course fee ($15) #3 Intermediate Yoga, #7 Gentle Yoga, #14 Continued Latin, #15 Seated & Standing Yoga ........................................................................................................................($15) $__________
• Course fee ($10) #24 Tai Chi ..........................................................................................................................($10) $__________
• Course fee ($40) #1 Cooking with Erika .........................................................................................................($40) $__________
• Additional parking decals only ..........................................................................................................(_____ x $22) $__________ TOTAL $__________
For Office Use Only:
Processed by: _______________ on _______________________ paid by ________________________ for $ _________________ initials date cash/check total amount ____ current member ___________ CNU alumni ______________ time received _________________ date received ____ reinstated member ___________ packet ______________ blue book _________________ computer ____ new member ___________ name tag ______________ decal
Payment Options: Checks (made payable to CNU), cash, or credit card.
LifeLong Learning Society
Christopher Newport University
Yoder Barn Theatre
660 Hamilton Drive
Newport News, VA 23602-6925
Registration Opens April 21, 2025!
LIFELONGLEARNING
Iceland: Land of Fire & Ice
LLS UPCOMING EVENTS
June 25 – July 4, 2025
Treasures of Washington D.C. June 28, 2025
Annual Fourth of July Picnic July 1, 2025
Sequoia & Kings Canyon
National Parks September 24-October 3, 2025
Spotlight on the French Riviera April 30 – May 8, 2026
Alaska Discovery Land & Cruise July 29 – August 9, 2026
Please see website or contact LLS for more information on upcoming events.
Thank You to Our Sponsors: The Henry L. and Grace Doherty Charitable Foundation, Inc.
Photo by MacKenzie Masterson